For three days starting Monday in the Players Era Festival in Las Vegas, 14th-ranked St. John’s will face three high-caliber opponents, teams that should let us know where this group stands three weeks into this season of high expectations.
First up is No. 16 Iowa State, then Baylor, followed by an opponent to be determined. It is an opportunity for Rick Pitino’s Johnnies to make a national statement after falling short in their first major test, a Nov. 8 loss to No. 11 Alabama at the Garden.
The Post takes a look at the five most important players for the fascinating week ahead:
Zuby Ejiofor
In the last two blowout victories, Ejiofor wasn’t himself, averaging only eight points, 4.5 rebounds and two turnovers. I expect to see the player who was dominant against Alabama. St. John’s won’t be able to have a good week otherwise. The All-American candidate is that important. Monday’s matchup will be a challenge, as Ejiofor faces Iowa State standout forward Joshua Jefferson, who is off to a fantastic start. Ejiofor frequently rose to the occasion a year ago, putting up big games against a number of elite front lines belonging to the likes of New Mexico, Creighton, Baylor and Arkansas. Ejiofor’s rebounding is down to begin the season — from 8.1 a year ago to 6.3 — and losing the battle on the glass was pivotal in the Alabama loss. Look for a motivated Ejiofor in Sin City.
